Lisa: The Painful and Joyful Surprise Android Release

If you were hoping for a laid-back, relaxing, and happy weekend, I've got some bad news for you. The surprise release of two critically acclaimed games, Lisa: The Painful and Lisa: The Joyful, now available on Android, is set to challenge your expectations. Dive into the harrowing yet engaging RPG experience of the Lisa series, and brace yourself for a direct hit to the heart.

Set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, you'll navigate through a series of dismal moral choices as Brad Armstrong in his quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy. While the concept of a soul-crushingly depressing RPG might seem daunting, the Lisa series is renowned for blending genuinely enjoyable gameplay with an ethically challenging and engaging narrative. It's not for the faint of heart, but it could be the profound experience you've been seeking.

In practical terms, the gameplay in Lisa is less confrontational than you might expect. Despite the complexity of its story and choices, it follows the mechanics of a traditional turn-based RPG. You'll recruit a squad of companions to join you on your journey, facing off against various foes along the way. However, be cautious—your companions aren't as durable as you, and certain instant kill moves by enemies or other events can permanently remove them from your roster. The mobile versions are part of the Definitive Edition collection, featuring new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other enhancements.

If Lisa's turn-based battles pique your interest but you're looking for something a bit softer, why not explore further? Check out our curated list of the top 25 best RPGs for iOS and Android to expand your RPG palate.